Pet enclosure

ABSTRACT

A collapsible pet enclosure is provided. The enclosure includes a pliable cover supported by a rigid, but foldable, frame. The cover includes an opening in a top panel such that the enclosure is top loading. The cover is completely removable from the frame so that it can be machine washed. The frame is of one-piece jointed construction so that it is collapsible for easy transportation or storage. Because all frame components are jointedly attached to one another, the frame does not include any loose components that are easily lost. The enclosure is quick and easy to set up and collapse.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/460,046,filed on Jun. 12, 2003, which claims priority to provisional applicationSer. No. 60/388,514, filed on Jun. 12, 2002. The entire contents of eachof the priority applications are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to animal enclosures. More particularly,the present pet enclosure includes a collapsible one-piece frame thatprovides for easy setup of the enclosure as well as portability withoutthe need to keep track of multiple pieces. Advantageously, the enclosureincludes a completely removable and washable fabric cover.

2. Description of the Related Art

Many pet owners enjoy taking their pet along with them when they travel.For example, when taking an extended road trip, many pet owners like tohave their pet's companionship for the trip. Taking the pet along isoften preferable to hiring someone to take care of the pet or puttingthe pet in a kennel. Many pets suffer separation anxiety when theirowner is away. The anxiety can cause the pet to chew on furniture,urinate on the carpet, and generally wreak havoc around the house. Whenthe owner returns, the damage causes the owner unnecessary aggravationand repair expense.

Several pet carriers are available that owners can use to convenientlytransport their pets. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,076,485 and6,155,206 disclose collapsible pet carriers. However, when the ownerarrives at his or her destination, often there is no convenient area inwhich to leave the pet. Pet carriers, such as those described in theabove patents, are designed to be small and easy to carry. Consequently,they are generally confining for the pet. They do not have much interiorspace in which the pet can stretch out.

Leaving the pet in a car is dangerous to the pet. If the temperatureoutside the car is cold, then the car interior will be cold and the petmay become sick. Conversely, if it is a warm day and the sun is shining,the sun's radiation can cause the interior of the car to reachdangerously hot temperatures. Further, while in the car the pet maysuffer from separation anxiety. The pet may then cause the same problemsdescribed above.

If the owner is visiting a friend's or relative's home, he or she maysometimes bring the pet into the home. However, many homeowners aresensitive to the problems that pets can cause, such as odors or damagefrom chewing or scratching. Further, some homeowners are allergic to petdander, which pets usually leave behind on carpet and/or furniture.Therefore, letting the pet roam free indoors is not always possible.Further, many homes do not have suitable outdoor areas in which the petmay roam. Homes located in heavily populated urban areas often do nothave enough outdoor area for the pet to occupy. Homes in more ruralareas may not have fencing to contain the pet. The pet could thus wanderoff and be lost or struck by a car.

A number of portable pet enclosures are available to pet owners. Petowners can thus bring their pets along with them almost anywhere theygo. When the owner arrives at his or her destination, he or she sets upthe enclosure, indoors or out, and places the pet inside. The pet issafely contained and cannot wander off. The enclosure is ventilated toprevent the temperature inside from becoming too hot. If the enclosureis placed indoors, the enclosure prevents direct contact between the petand the surroundings, thus reducing odors or dander that the pet mightotherwise leave behind.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,335,618 (the '618 patent) discloses an example of acollapsible animal enclosure. The enclosure has a house unit 10 withspaced side walls 14 and a roof 16 of pliable material, and oppositeends 20, 22 forming an enclosed area for housing an animal. Each endwall has an opening 24, 26 for allowing entry to and exit from theenclosure. Support bows 28 extend transversely across the side walls androof for holding the side walls and roof in an open, spread apartcondition. The house unit is convertible between a use configuration inwhich the opposite ends are spread a maximum distance apart and acollapsed configuration in which the ends are pushed inwardly towardsone another, collapsing the pliable material between the ends in anaccordion-like manner. Longitudinal spreader bars 32 disposed at eitherend in pockets 34 at opposite ends of the house unit maintain the houseunit in the use configuration. An extended run unit 12 of similarconstruction to the house unit is releasably securable to one end of thehouse unit to provide an extended exercise area.

The enclosure of the '618 patent is constructed of multiple pieces thatare difficult to keep track of when the enclosure is collapsed. Tocollapse the house unit, a pet owner removes the spreader bars andfloor, and may also remove the support bows. When storing ortransporting the enclosure, these separate pieces are cumbersome tocarry and are easily lost.

The design of the enclosure of the '618 patent makes accessing theinterior of the enclosure difficult. The openings of the enclosure arelocated on the end walls. Thus, when a pet owner places his or her petinside the enclosure, he or she must move quickly to seal the openingbefore the pet runs back out. Also, when a pet owner wants to brieflyopen the enclosure with his or her pet inside, for example to play withthe pet or insert or remove a food or water dish, the pet can easilyexit the enclosure by running through the opening.

Another example of a portable pet enclosure is manufactured by CabanaCrate Co. The enclosure comprises a nylon cover stretched about a framethat is substantially in the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. Theframe comprises aluminum tubing that is sewn into the cover. The tubesare sandwiched between layers of the cover material. The front, back andside walls of the cover are mesh, allowing air to circulate through theenclosure. A zipper connects the front wall to the side walls and floor.Unzipping the zipper enables a pet owner to access the interior of theenclosure.

Because the Cabana enclosure opens along its front wall, it provides aneasy escape route for the pet whenever the door is open. Also, becausethe frame tubes are integral with the cover, the cover is not removablefrom the frame. The cover is thus difficult to clean. It cannot bemachine washed, because the frame cannot be placed in a washing machinetogether with the cover. Further, the area between the layers of covermaterial, in which the tubes reside, tends to trap dirt, pet hair, petdander, etc. And if the pet has an “accident” inside the Cabanaenclosure, this area traps the pet's waste and leaves the enclosure withan odor that is difficult to remove.

Therefore, a portable pet enclosure from which pets cannot easilyescape, that is not constructed of a multitude of pieces that are easyto lose, and that is easy to clean, would be of great benefit to petowners.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The preferred embodiments of the pet enclosure have several features, nosingle one of which is solely responsible for their desirableattributes. Without limiting the scope of this pet enclosure asexpressed by the claims that follow, its more prominent features willnow be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, andparticularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description ofthe Preferred Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of thepreferred embodiments provide advantages, which include integration ofparts into a one-piece frame, easy transportability, easy washability,and easy access to the enclosure interior without enabling a pet'sescape.

A preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises a rigidsupport frame and a cover. The frame is constructed of a rigid floor,first and second rigid end trusses, and at least one jointed supportmember extending between the end trusses.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises asupport frame for a pet enclosure. The support frame comprises a floormember, a first end truss, a second end truss and at least one supportmember. The trusses are each constructed of at least one rigid member.The first and second end trusses are preferably hingedly connected tothe floor truss. The at least one support member has a first end and asecond end. The first end is hingedly connected to the first end truss,and the second end is hingedly connected to the second end truss.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises ajoint for releasably connecting a first member and a second member. Thejoint comprises a first connector and a second connector. The firstconnector is secured to an end of the first member, and the secondconnector is secured to an end of the second member. Preferably, anelasticized member extends between the ends of the first and secondmembers. A locking sleeve is slidable on the members between a firstposition in which the sleeve is adjacent a junction of the ends of thefirst and second members, and a second position in which the sleevecovers the junction.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises arigid frame for a pet enclosure. The frame comprises a bottom truss, endtrusses hingedly secured to opposite ends of the bottom truss, and atleast one jointed support tube extending between the end trusses.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises amethod of folding a pet enclosure, wherein the pet enclosure comprises ajointed frame and a cover. The method comprises the steps of bending ajointed frame support member, folding a first frame end truss toward aframe floor member, folding a second frame end truss toward the floormember, and securing a first portion of the cover to a second portion ofthe cover, thereby resisting unfolding of the enclosure.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises arigid support frame and a cover. The frame is constructed of a rigidroof truss, first and second rigid end trusses, and at least one jointedsupport member extending between the end trusses.

Any of the above embodiments may further comprise a fabric cover. Thecover may be stretchable over the frame, or be supported externally bythe frame. The cover is preferably completely removable from the frameso that it is easily machine washed.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises asupport frame for a pet enclosure. The support frame comprises a floormember defining a floor plane. The floor member includes at least afirst pair of lugs that extend away from the floor plane and define afirst pivot axis that is spaced from the floor plane. The floor memberfurther includes at least a second pair of lugs that extend away fromthe floor plane and define a second pivot axis that is spaced from thefloor plane. A first truss is pivotably connected to the first pair oflugs at the first pivot axis, and a second truss is pivotably connectedto the second pair of lugs at the second pivot axis. The second pivotaxis is spaced from the floor plane a greater distance than the firstpivot axis.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises asupport frame for a pet enclosure. The support frame comprises a floormember, a first truss pivotably connected to the floor member at or neara first end thereof, and a second truss pivotably connected to the floormember at or near a second end thereof. The support frame furthercomprises at least one support member having a first end and a secondend, the first end being pivotably connected to the first truss and thesecond end being pivotably connected to the second truss. The at leastone support member comprises a first section and a second section, thefirst and second sections being separate pieces that are connectable toone another at a free end of each. The first section and the secondsection are of unequal lengths.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises asupport frame for a pet enclosure. The support frame comprises a floormember, a first truss pivotably connected to the floor member at or neara first end thereof, and a second truss pivotably connected to the floormember at or near a second end thereof. The support frame furthercomprises at least one support member having a first end and a secondend, the first end being pivotably connected to the first truss and thesecond end being pivotably connected to the second truss. A lockingsleeve is slidable on the at least one support member between a firstposition and a second position. The at least one support membercomprises a first section and a second section, the first and secondsections being separate pieces that are connectable to one another at afree end of each. When the locking sleeve occupies the first positionthe free ends of the first section and the second section may beseparated from one another, and when the locking sleeve occupies thesecond position the free ends of the first and second sections may notbe separated from one another.

Another preferred embodiment of the present pet enclosure comprises asupport frame for a pet enclosure. The support frame comprises a floormember, a first truss pivotably connected to the floor member at or neara first end thereof, and a second truss pivotably connected to the floormember at or near a second end thereof. The support frame furthercomprises at least one support member having a first end and a secondend, the first end being pivotably connected to the first truss and thesecond end being pivotably connected to the second truss. A lockingsleeve including a first through-hole and a second through-hole isslidable on the at least one support member between a first position anda second position. The support frame further comprises a push-buttonmechanism associated with the locking sleeve. The push-button mechanismcooperates with the first through-hole and the second through-hole toreleasably lock the locking sleeve in the first position and the secondposition, respectively.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The preferred embodiments of the pet enclosure, illustrating itsfeatures, will now be discussed in detail. These embodiments depict thenovel and non-obvious pet enclosure shown in the accompanying drawings,which are for illustrative purposes only. These drawings include thefollowing figures, in which like numerals indicate like parts:

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a preferred embodiment of thepresent pet enclosure;

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of the pet enclosure of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side elevation view of a preferred embodiment of a frame forthe pet enclosure of FIG. 1, illustrating the locking sleeves in thelocked position;

FIG. 4 is a side elevation view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating thelocking sleeves in the unlocked position;

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating thelocking sleeves in the unlocked position and the support tubes bent;

FIG. 6 is a side elevation view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating afirst end truss in a folded position;

FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating theframe in the folded position;

FIG. 8 is an end elevation view of the frame of FIG. 3;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional end view of the frame of FIG. 3, takenthrough the line 9-9;

FIG. 10 is a detail view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating the jointand locking sleeve in the locked position;

FIG. 11 is a detail view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating the jointand locking sleeve in the unlocked position;

FIG. 12 is a detail view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating thelocking sleeve in the unlocked position and the joint in the bentposition;

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional detail view of the frame of FIG. 3,illustrating the joint and locking sleeve in the locked position;

FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional detail view of the frame of FIG. 3,illustrating the joint and locking sleeve in the unlocked position;

FIG. 15 is a detail view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating a hingejoining the bottom truss and an end truss;

FIG. 16 is a detail view of the frame of FIG. 3, illustrating a hingejoining a support tube and an end truss;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the frame of FIG. 3;

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of the pet enclosure of FIG. 1,illustrating the pet enclosure in a folded configuration; and

FIG. 19 is a front perspective view of another preferred embodiment ofthe present pet enclosure, illustrating an external frame.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present pet enclosure 20, pictured in FIGS. 1, 2 and 18, comprises afabric cover 22 supported by a rigid frame 24. In the illustratedembodiment, the enclosure 20 is shaped generally as a six-sidedrectangular box, having a top panel 26, a floor panel 28, a front panel30, a rear panel 32, and two side panels 34. Those of skill in the artwill appreciate that the enclosure 20 could have any number of sides,and could be a variety of other shapes and sizes. The enclosure 20 ispreferably available in a variety of sizes to accommodate pets ofdifferent sizes.

The cover 22 is preferably constructed of a lightweight but durablefabric that is resistant to being torn by pet teeth or claws, and canwithstand repeated machine washing and drying without wearing out orshrinking. A preferred material is nylon. Those of skill in the art willappreciate that other materials could be used, such as canvas orplastic. Corners of the enclosure 20 preferably include reinforcingpatches 36. Each patch 36 is substantially triangular, with each cornerof each triangle residing along a border edge 38 of two contiguouspanels 26, 28, 30, 32, 34. The patches 36 are preferably constructed ofa durable material, such as nylon or leather. The patches 36 not onlyreinforce the cover 22 and increase its life span, but they also providea cushion so that the comers of the enclosure 20 are less likely todamage objects that they strike.

The cover 22 preferably includes substantially non-breathable fabricportions 40 and breathable mesh portions 42 that enable air to circulatethrough the enclosure 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the floor panel28 is constructed of only non-breathable fabric 40, while the remainingpanels 26, 30, 32, 34 are constructed of a combination of non-breathablefabric 40 and breathable mesh 42. Each of these panels 26, 30, 32, 34includes a central mesh portion 42 surrounded by a fabric border 40. Theside panels 34 may also include a fabric portion 40 running diagonallythrough the central mesh portion 42. Those of skill in the art willappreciate that the panels 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 could comprise a varietyof other combinations of fabric and mesh portions. For example, somepanels could comprise entirely mesh, or entirely fabric, or the sizesand/or shapes of the mesh and fabric portions could be different.

Opaque shades (not shown) could be provided to selectively cover themesh portions 42 of each panel. For example, flaps could be sewn orotherwise secured to one or more of the panels 26, 30, 32, 34. Whenflat, the flaps could cover the mesh portions 42, and be secured inplace with zippers, snaps, or the like. In this configuration, the flapswould provide privacy to a pet inside the enclosure 20. The flaps wouldalso prevent sunlight from entering the enclosure 20, which would keepthe pet cooler on hot sunny days. Likewise, the flaps would prevent windand rain from entering the enclosure 20, which would keep the pet warmerand drier on cold rainy days. When rolled up or removed, the flaps couldbe secured adjacent the mesh portions 42 with straps or the like. Inthis configuration, the flaps would enable air and sunlight to enter theenclosure 20.

The enclosure 20 may also include a waterproof canopy (not shown). Thecanopy may comprise a canvas or nylon sheet large enough to stretch overthe enclosure 20. The enclosure 20 may support the canopy directly, orthe canopy may be supported with substantially vertical poles, guy wiresand stakes. The canopy may be integral with the enclosure 20, or anindependent structure. The canopy provides shelter from rainstorms,keeping the interior of the enclosure 20 dry so that a pet can be leftoutdoors inside the enclosure 20 even on rainy days.

A first edge 44 of the mesh portion 42 of the top panel 26 is preferablystitched to the fabric portion 40. The remaining three edges of the meshportion 42 are releasably secured to the fabric portion 40 with a zipper46, which is actuated by one or more zipper pull tabs 47. The top panel26 thus includes a recloseable top opening 48 that provides access tothe interior of the enclosure 20. A pet owner can easily place a petinto, or remove a pet from, the enclosure 20 through the top opening 48.Because the top opening 48 is located in the top panel 26, a pet withinthe enclosure 20 cannot easily escape from the enclosure 20 when the topopening 48 is unzipped. Thus, when the pet is within the enclosure 20,the owner can add or remove items through the top opening 48, such asfood and water dishes, toys or blankets, without having to guard againstthe pet escaping. The owner can also interact with the pet through thetop opening 48. For example, the owner can pet the animal, brush itsfur, etc.

The top panel 26 of the cover 22 preferably includes a retaining strap50 secured near the first edge 44 of the mesh portion 42 forming the topopening 48. An end of the strap 50 preferably includes securing means(not shown), such as a button, snap or hook-and-loop fastener. When themesh portion 42 is unzipped and rolled up, as shown in FIG. 1, the strap50 is securable around the rolled up mesh portion 42. The securing meanson the strap 50 is attachable to a mating securing means 106 that ispreferably attached to an inside surface of the open mesh portion 42, orto an inside surface of the cover 22.

The cover 22 also preferably includes a second recloseable opening 52 inthe front panel 30. Like the top opening 48, the front opening 52comprises a mesh portion 42 that is stitched along a first edge 54 to afabric border portion 40. The remaining three edges are releasablysecureable to the fabric border 40 with a zipper 46, which is alsoactuated by one or more zipper pull tabs 47. The front opening 52enables a pet owner to allow his or her pet to enter and exit theenclosure 20 without assistance from the owner. For example, if the petis heavy or otherwise difficult to pick up and place in the enclosure 20through the top opening 48, the owner can open the front opening 52 andurge the pet into or out of the enclosure 20.

The cover preferably includes a security snap clip 116 (FIG. 1). Theclip 116 is insertable through holes in the zipper pull tabs 47, andlocks the front opening 52. The clip 116 is anchored to the cover 22. Ifboth zipper pull tabs 47 are located near the clip 116, and the clip 116is inserted into the pull tab 47 that would be used to unzip the frontopening 52, then that zipper 46 is immobilized and the front opening 52cannot be opened. The pet inside the enclosure 20 thus cannot unzip thefront opening 52 in order to escape from the enclosure 20. A second clip116 may be provided adjacent the top opening 48.

Rather than being anchored to the cover 22, the clip could beindependent of the cover 22. If the independent clip 116 were insertedthrough both zipper pull tabs 47, the top opening 48 or front opening 52could not be opened, because as one zipper pull tab 47 moves to open theenclosure 20, the other zipper pull tab 47 follows right behind toreclose the enclosure 20. Those of skill in the art will appreciate thatthe enclosure need not include the security snap clip 116.

In the illustrated embodiment, the exterior surface of the rear panel 32(FIG. 2) of the cover 22 includes a pocket 55, a zippered pocket 56 anda mesh pouch 58. The pockets 55, 56 and pouch 58 are useful for holdingpet accessories, such as food, treats, toys and grooming tools. Those ofskill in the art will appreciate that the pockets 55, 56 and pouch 58could be located anywhere on the cover 22, including the interiorsurface of the cover 22. Those of skill in the art will furtherappreciate that the enclosure 20 need not include any pockets orpouches. The cover 22 may also include receptacles (not shown) forcontaining food and/or water. The receptacles may be located on eitherthe interior or the exterior of the cover 22, and may comprise, forexample, rigid or semi-rigid plastic bowls. Alternatively, the cover 22may include soft pockets for holding rigid or semi-rigid plastic bowls.

The cover preferably includes tabs 118 (FIGS. 1 and 2) for acceptingstakes (not shown). The tabs 118 are attached to the cover floor panel28, or adjacent the floor panel 28. The tabs 118 each include a hole120, through which a stake can be driven to firmly secure the enclosure20 to the ground. Each hole 120 is preferably reinforced with a grommet121, which is preferably constructed of any sturdy material such asmetal or high-impact plastic. Those of skill in the art will appreciatethat the enclosure need not include the tabs 118.

A rigid frame 24 (FIGS. 3-17) supports the cover 22. In the illustratedembodiment, the frame 24 is internal to the cover 22. Those of skill inthe art will appreciate that the frame 24 may be external to the cover22, as illustrated in FIG. 19. The frame 24 comprises a substantiallyrectangular floor truss 60, two substantially U-shaped end trusses 62,and jointed support tubes 64 extending between upper edges of the endtrusses 62 (FIG. 17).

The word truss, as used herein, is defined as a rigid frame comprised ofat least two interconnected members. For example, a truss includes fourbars welded to one another to form a rectangular frame. The definitionof truss, as used herein, is not exclusive of any manner of attachingthe truss members together. The members may be, for example, welded,adhered, riveted, screwed, bolted, nailed, etc, to one another. Themembers may even be formed integrally with one another. For example,four tubes that are formed as a single piece four-sided frame comprise atruss. The definition of truss, as used herein, is also not exclusive ofany material. The truss members may be, for example, metal, plastic,composite, wood, ceramic, etc.

The floor truss 60 and the end trusses 62 are each constructed of rigidbars or tubes 66 (FIG. 17). For ease of reference, the tubes 66 will bereferred to herein as tubes, even though they could comprise solid bars,as those of skill in the art will appreciate.

The bars or tubes 66 may be made of any suitable rigid material that ispreferably lightweight. Preferred materials include, without limitation,metals such as steel or aluminum, plastics, and composites. Theillustrated tubes 66 are of circular cross-section. However, those ofskill in the art will appreciate that the tubes could be of anycross-section, such as square or hexagonal. The floor truss 60 maycomprise a single tube 66 that is bent at right angles in four placesand the ends of the tube 66 connected to one another. Alternatively, thefloor truss 60 may comprise four separate tubes 66 connected to oneanother at their ends to form four corners. Preferably, corners of thetrusses 60, 62 are somewhat rounded to reduce the likelihood of injuryto someone bumping into the frame 24.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the frame 24 may beconfigured differently. For example, if the frame were inverted, thefloor truss 60 could be used to support a roof of the enclosure 20. Thejointed support tubes 64 would then extend between lower edges of theend trusses 62. The floor truss 60 could also include a floor panel (notshown). For example, a flat rectangular panel could be secured to lower,upper or inner surfaces of the tubes 66 comprising the floor truss 60.The panel could, for example, be made of metal, fiberglass or acomposite material, and could be secured to the floor truss 60 bywelding or adhesive. Alternatively, the floor truss 60 could beeliminated, and the end trusses 62 could be secured directly to thefloor panel.

Four lugs 68 (FIGS. 3, 4, 15 and 16) are preferably secured to the floortruss 60, one lug 68 near each corner of the floor truss 60. Each lug 68comprises a substantially rectangular plate that is secured to the floortruss 60 such that a plane defined by each lug 68 is perpendicular to aplane defined by the floor truss 60. Each lug 68 includes a through-hole(not shown) for receiving a hinge pin 67 (FIGS. 15 and 16).

The end trusses 62 are pivotably attached to the lugs 68. Each of theend trusses 62 is preferably three-sided and substantially U-shaped.Like the floor truss 60, the end trusses 62 are constructed of rigidbars or tubes 66. The bars or tubes 66 may be made of any suitable rigidmaterial that is preferably lightweight. Preferred materials include,without limitation, metals such as steel or aluminum, plastics, andcomposites. The end trusses 62 may comprise a single tube 66 that isbent in two places. Alternatively, the end trusses 62 may comprise threeseparate tubes 66 connected to one another at their ends to form a U.

A hinge portion 70 (FIGS. 15 and 16) is inserted within the ends of thetube or tubes 66 forming the open end of the U in each end truss 62.Each hinge portion 70 is substantially cylindrical. A first end of thehinge portion 70 resides within the end of the tube 62 in a frictionfit. The hinge portions 70 may also be attached to the end trusses 62 byalternate means. For example, if the end trusses 62 comprise solid bars,rather than hollow tubes, the hinge portions 70 may be glued, welded orotherwise attached to the bars. Even when the hinge portions 70 areinserted into tubular panels, the hinge portions 70 may also be securedby gluing, welding or the like for a stronger hold.

A length of each hinge portion 70 extends from the end of the tube 66.This exposed portion 72 includes a longitudinal slit 74 (FIG. 16) thatextends through the entire diameter of the hinge portion 70. Atransverse through-hole (not shown) extends through the exposed portion72 and intersects the space defined by the slit 74. The slit 74 isconfigured to accept a lug 68, such that the through-hole in thehinge-portion 70 aligns with the through-hole in the lug 68. A hinge pin67 inserted through both through-holes pivotably secures the hingeportion 70 to the lug 68. The two hinge portions 70 at either open endof the end trusses 62, respectively, thus pivotably attach the endtrusses 62 to the lugs 68 on the floor truss 60.

Each support tube 64 comprises a long portion 76 and a short portion 78(FIGS. 3 and 4). A first end 80 (FIG. 3) of each portion 76, 78 ispivotably attached to an upper portion 82 of an end truss 62 in asimilar manner as the end trusses 62 are pivotably attached to the floortruss 60. Second ends 84 (FIG. 4) of each portion 76, 78 are releasablyconnectable to each other via a joint 86 (FIGS. 4, 13 and 14). Eachjoint 86 comprises a female connector 88 having a substantiallycylindrical exterior and a substantially cylindrical socket 90 at afirst end. Each joint 86 also comprises a male connector 92 having asubstantially cylindrical exterior and a substantially cylindrical plug94 at a first end. An outer diameter of the plug 94 is preferablyroughly equal to an inner diameter of the socket 90. The plug 94 is thussnugly slidable within the socket 90.

The exterior of the female connector 88 fits snugly within the secondend 84 of the support tube long portion 76. The exterior of the maleconnector 92 fits snugly within the second end 84 of the support tubeshort portion 78. The long portion 76 and short portion 78 are thusconnectable to one another by insertion of the plug 94 into the socket90. In this configuration, each support tube 64 becomes a one-piece barthat is rigid in compression and maintains the end trusses 62 in theirupright positions, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4.

A substantially cylindrical passage 96 extends through both the femaleand male connectors 88, 92. An elastic cord 98 (FIGS. 12, 13 and 14)preferably extends through each passage 96 and is secured at either endto the female and male connectors 88, 92, or in the portions 76, 78.Tension in the elastic cord 98 urges the female and male connectors 88,92 toward one another. Thus, although each support tube 64 comprises twopieces 76, 78, the elastic cords 98 assist in aligning and securing thetwo pieces together. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theelastic cords 98 need not be provided. However, the elastic cords 98facilitate quick setup of the enclosure 20, as described below. Theelastic cords 98 also make the frame 24 more manageable by preventingthe detached pieces 76, 78 from flopping around.

Each support tube 64 preferably includes a substantially cylindricallocking sleeve 100 (FIGS. 10-14 and 17). The sleeve 100 is slidablealong the support tube 64 from a locked position (FIGS. 10, 13 and 17)to an unlocked position (FIGS. 11, 12 and 14). In the locked position,the sleeve 100 covers the joint 86 between the short and long portions76, 78 of the support tube 64 and increases the overall rigidity of thesupport frame 24. In the unlocked position, the sleeve 100 is slid awayfrom the joint 86 such that the short and long portions 76, 78 areeasily pulled apart from one another and the support tubes 64 bent asshown in FIG. 5, and in detail in FIG. 12. Preferably, a length of thecover 22 is substantially equal to a length of the support tubes 64.Thus, when the cover 22 is stretched over the frame 24, the cover 22resists any tendency of the short and long portions 76, 78 to separatefrom one another.

The sleeve 100 includes two through-holes 102 (FIGS. 13 and 14), onenear each end of the sleeve 100. The holes 102 lie along a line that isparallel to a longitudinal axis of the sleeve 100. Near the joint 86,the long portion 76 of each support tube 64 includes a U-shaped,cantilevered leaf spring 104 with a button 106 near a free end. Thebutton 106 protrudes through a hole 108 in a side wall of the supporttube 64. The button 106 is aligned with the line joining the two holes102 on the sleeve 100. Thus, when the sleeve 100 is in the lockedposition, the button 106 protrudes through one hole 102 in the sleeve100. As the sleeve 100 slides along the support tube 64 toward theunlocked position, it maintains the button 106 in a depressed positionuntil it reaches the unlocked position, where the button 106 pops upinto the other hole 102 in the sleeve 100. The button 106 thusreleasably locks the sleeve 100 in either the locked or unlockedposition.

The enclosure 20 is foldable into the configuration illustrated in FIG.18. The front panel 30 is folded approximately ninety-degrees toward thefloor panel 28 such that the two panels are substantially parallel. Therear panel 32 is also folded approximately ninety-degrees toward thefloor panel 28, such that it rests atop the front panel 30, and issubstantially parallel to both the floor panel 28 and the front panel30. In this configuration, the enclosure 20 comprises a compact flatpanel that occupies a fraction of the space that the unfolded enclosure20 of FIGS. 1 and 2 occupies. The folded enclosure is thus easy to storeand easy to transport.

Preferably, the cover 22 includes closure clips 110 (FIGS. 1, 2 and 18),which comprise releasably lockable male and female connectors. The clips110 secure the enclosure 20 in the folded configuration as shown in FIG.18. The enclosure 20 cover 22 may also include a side handle 112 (FIG.2) to enable easy carrying of the folded enclosure 20. Alternatively,the enclosure 20 may include a bag (not shown) into which the foldedenclosure 20 may be inserted for easy carrying or storage. Additionalhandles (not shown) may also be provided to facilitate carrying of theenclosure 20 when the enclosure 20 is in the unfolded configuration asin FIG. 1. The handles could be conveniently positioned along the upperedges of the cover 22 to enable a pet owner to pick up the enclosure 20,perhaps with a pet inside, and carry it to a different location. Thehandles could alternatively be secured directly to the frame 24, andcould protrude through apertures (not shown) in the cover 22, if theframe 24 is internal.

The procedure for folding the enclosure 20 is illustrated in FIGS. 3-7.For clarity, the procedure is illustrated with the cover 22 removed fromthe frame 24. However, most pet owners will likely prefer to fold theenclosure without first removing the cover 22, because such removal isunnecessary for storage or transportation of the enclosure 20.

The pet owner first unzips the top opening 48 and removes the pet andother articles from the enclosure 20. Next, the pet owner depresses thebutton 106 and slides both locking sleeves 100 from the locked position(FIG. 3) to the unlocked position (FIG. 4). The owner then pushesdownward on the support tubes 64 at or near the joints 86 so that thesupport tubes 64 bend (FIG. 5). Advantageously, the elastic cords 98retain the portions 76, 78 of the support tubes 64 in close proximity.The elastic cords 98 thus guide the support tubes 64 to their desiredorientations during folding so that the owner does not have to guidethem with his or her hand.

Next, the owner folds downward the end truss 62 that is connected to theshort portions 78 of the support tubes 64 (FIG. 6). In the illustratedembodiment, the first-folded end truss 62 corresponds to the front panel30 (FIGS. 1, 2 and 18). However, those of skill in the art willappreciate that the orientation of the cover 22 relative to the frame 24may be reversed such that the end truss 62 corresponds to the rear panel32. In such an orientation, the owner would fold the rear panel 32first.

As the owner folds the first end truss 62, the short portions 78 pivotabout the lugs 68 toward the first end truss 62. When a plane defined bythe first end truss 62 is substantially parallel to the long portions76, the short portions 78 begin to pivot in the opposite direction. Theshort portions 78 continue to pivot in this direction until the planedefined by the first end truss 62 is substantially parallel to a planedefined by the floor truss 60. In this configuration, shown in FIG. 6,the short portions 78 are substantially parallel to the plane defined bythe first end truss 62 and extend away from the first end truss 62.

Tucking the cover 22 inside, the owner then folds downward the remainingend truss 62 so that it rests on top of the first-folded end truss 62(FIGS. 7 and 18). Preferably, the lugs 68 to which the second-folded endtruss 62 are attached are somewhat longer than the lugs 68 to which thefirst-folded end truss 62 are attached. Thus, when the second panel isfolded on top of the first, the panels 62 are able to occupy spacedparallel planes. The enclosure 20 is thus able to fold more compactly.To facilitate tighter nesting between the end trusses 62, the endtrusses 62 may have different widths. For example, the end truss 62 thatis folded first may be narrower than the end truss 62 that is foldedsecond. The parallel legs of the first-folded end truss 62 would thennest inside the parallel legs of the second-folded end truss 62.

Preferably, inside surfaces of the cover 22 that abut the frame 24include straps 114 (FIG. 2). The straps 114 include releasable securingmeans, such as snaps or hook-and-loop fastener. The straps 114 arewrapped around the tubes 66 of the end trusses 62 to more securelyfasten the cover 22 to the frame 24. Thus, as the owner folds theenclosure 20, the cover 22 follows the motion of the end trusses 62.Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the straps 114 need notbe provided.

If the cover 22 is external to the frame 24, the cover 22 preferablyincludes straps 114 on its outside surfaces, as shown in FIG. 19. Thestraps 114 secure the cover 22 to the frame 24 so that the flexiblecover 22 does not collapse under its own weight. When the enclosure 20is folded, the straps 114 also allow the cover 22, to follow the motionof the end trusses 62.

To secure the enclosure in the folded configuration shown in FIG. 18,the owner secures the mating ends of the closure clips 110 together. Theowner can thus grasp the handle 112 and carry the enclosure 20 in anupright plane without gravity unfolding the enclosure 20.

The procedure for unfolding the enclosure 20 comprises, in reverseorder, the steps from the folding procedure just described. Again, theelastic cords 98 advantageously guide the support tube portions 76, 78to the aligned position of FIG. 5. The owner thus need not guide themhimself or herself, which would add complexity to the unfoldingprocedure.

Advantageously, the frame 24 of the present enclosure 20 is made up ofjointed pieces that are all attached to one another, even when theenclosure 20 is completely folded. The separate portions 76, 78 of thesupport tubes 64 are secured to one another with the elastic cord 98.The frame 24 is thus manipulable as one piece, and is portable as onepiece. There are no extra components to keep track of.

As those of skill in the art will appreciate, the elastic cords 98 neednot be provided. In an embodiment of the enclosure 20 that does notinclude the elastic cords 98, folding would proceed substantially asdescribed above. However, rather than bending the support tubes 64 at ornear the joints 86, the owner would separate the pieces 76, 78 and alloweach one to pivot to an orientation wherein each hung parallel to theend trusses 62. The owner would then fold the end trusses 62 asdescribed above, securing each piece 76, 78 under its respective endtruss 62. In addition, each interconnected member of a truss may besecured to the other interconnected member(s) through the use of otherhinged arrangements or securement devices. For example, the members maybe welded to one another or formed of one integral piece.

The cover 22 of the present enclosure 20 is completely removable fromthe support frame 24. To remove the cover 22, the owner first detachesthe cover 22 from the frame 24 by reaching through one of the openings48, 52 and unfastening the straps 114 (if straps 114 are provided) fromthe tubes 66. The owner then folds the frame 24 by following theprocedure described above. However, the owner folds the frame 24independently of the cover 22. The owner can then easily remove thecompact folded frame 24 from the cover 22 by passing it through one ofthe openings 48, 52.

The cover 22 is thus easily washable, because it can be machine washedwhen separated from the frame 24. Also, an owner may easily replace aworn-out cover 22 without having to purchase an entire enclosure 20. Anowner may also purchase additional covers 22 in different colors. Theowner may then change the cover 22 as needed to, for example, match aroom's decor.

SCOPE OF THE INVENTION

The above presents a description of the best mode contemplated forcarrying out the present pet enclosure, and of the manner and process ofmaking and using it, in such full, clear, concise and exact terms as toenable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains to make anduse this pet enclosure. This pet enclosure is, however, susceptible tomodifications and alternate constructions from that discussed above thatare fully equivalent. Consequently, this pet enclosure is not limited tothe particular embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, this petenclosure covers all modifications and alternate constructions comingwithin the spirit and scope of the pet enclosure as generally expressedby the following claims, which particularly point out and distinctlyclaim the subject matter of the pet enclosure.

1. A support frame for a pet enclosure, comprising: a floor memberdefining a floor plane, the floor member including at least a first pairof lugs that extend away from the floor plane and define a first pivotaxis that is spaced from the floor plane, the floor member furtherincluding at least a second pair of lugs that extend away from the floorplane and define a second pivot axis that is spaced from the floorplane; a first truss pivotably connected to the first pair of lugs atthe first pivot axis; and a second truss pivotably connected to thesecond pair of lugs at the second pivot axis; wherein the second pivotaxis is spaced from the floor plane a greater distance than the firstpivot axis.
 2. The support frame of claim 1, wherein each lug comprisesa flat plate.
 3. The support frame of claim 2, wherein each lug issubstantially rectangular.
 4. The support frame of claim 2, wherein eachlug is secured to the floor member such that a plane defined by each lugis substantially perpendicular to the floor plane.
 5. The support frameof claim 1, wherein each lug includes a through-hole that is configuredto receive a hinge pin.
 6. The support frame of claim 1, wherein eachtruss is substantially U-shaped and includes at least one tubularmember.
 7. A support frame for a pet enclosure, comprising: a floormember; a first truss pivotably connected to the floor member at or neara first end thereof; a second truss pivotably connected to the floormember at or near a second end thereof; and at least one support memberhaving a first end and a second end, the first end being pivotablyconnected to the first truss and the second end being pivotablyconnected to the second truss; wherein the at least one support membercomprises a first section and a second section, the first and secondsections being separate pieces that are connectable to one another at afree end of each; and further wherein the first section and the secondsection are of unequal lengths.
 8. The support frame of claim 7, whereina length of the second section is approximately equal to a height of thesecond truss.
 9. The support frame of claim 7, wherein a length of thefloor member is approximately equal to a height of the first truss plusa length of the first section.
 10. A support frame for a pet enclosure,comprising: a floor member; a first truss pivotably connected to thefloor member at or near a first end thereof; a second truss pivotablyconnected to the floor member at or near a second end thereof; at leastone support member having a first end and a second end, the first endbeing pivotably connected to the first truss and the second end beingpivotably connected to the second truss; and a locking sleeve slidableon the at least one support member between a first position and a secondposition; wherein the at least one support member comprises a -firstsection and a second section, the first and second sections beingseparate pieces that are connectable to one another at a free end ofeach; and wherein when the locking sleeve occupies the first positionthe free ends of the first section and the second section may beseparated from one another, and when the locking sleeve occupies thesecond position the free ends of the first and second sections may notbe separated from one another.
 11. The support frame of claim 10,wherein when the locking sleeve occupies the second position it overliesthe free ends of the first section and the second section.
 12. Thesupport frame of claim 10, wherein the locking sleeve includes a firstthrough-hole and a second through-hole.
 13. The support frame of claim12, further comprising a push-button mechanism associated with thelocking sleeve.
 14. The support frame of claim 13, wherein thepush-button mechanism cooperates with the first through-hole and thesecond through-hole to releasably lock the locking sleeve in the firstposition and the second position, respectively.
 15. A support frame fora pet enclosure, comprising: a floor member; a first truss pivotablyconnected to the floor member at or near a first end thereof; a secondtruss pivotably connected to the floor member at or near a second endthereof; at least one support member having a first end and a secondend, the first end being pivotably connected to the first truss and thesecond end being pivotably connected to the second truss; a lockingsleeve including a first through-hole and a second through-hole slidableon the at least one support member between a first position and a secondposition; and a push-button mechanism associated with the lockingsleeve; wherein the push-button mechanism cooperates with the firstthrough-hole and the second through-hole to releasably lock the lockingsleeve in the first position and the second position, respectively. 16.The support frame of claim 15, wherein the at least one support membercomprises a first section and a second section, the first and secondsections being separate pieces that are connectable to one another at afree end of each.
 17. The support frame of claim 16, wherein when thelocking sleeve occupies the first position the free ends of the firstsection and the second section may be separated from one another, andwhen the locking sleeve occupies the second position the free ends ofthe first and second sections may not be separated from one another. 18.The support frame of claim 17, wherein when the locking sleeve occupiesthe second position it overlies the free ends of the first section andthe second section.